flpab

Never had a problem and have used many sites. I do think security is a big issue for many and I would be just as worried if I was renting out my very nice property. I have always been able to email owners though. I love reviews and can usually spot a fake one so that is important. I would not be making a video though.

MmePerdu

Wesleymarsh, thanks so much for that explanation of the Airbnb process and also your characterization of it as "genius". I think so too. I've been a member for some time so didn't need to do as much to sign up as is now required with the evolution of the site. Considering the benefits it's well worth the small effort and is necessary for the comfort of those on both sides of the transactions. For those, as you say, who need a last-minute accommodation maybe not the time to start. But definitely worthwhile for those interested, which won't be everyone.

MmePerdu

Just saw this in the NY Times for more insight on Airbnb:

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/16/bu....html?src=recg

flpab

Wow, housetrips looks great. Bookmarking that one for Paris.

MmePerdu

The link to HouseTrip needs the "s" on the end removed, http://www.housetrip.com/

StCirq

You might want to read some of the reviews of HouseTrip on Trip Advisor.

Sassafrass

We have used a number of booking sites, but for apartments, Airbnb is now our favorite. It was a bit of a hassle to get the video done, and I did not find the responses from Airbnb staff very responsive.

However, once we were registered, I felt it was a safe and secure way of doing business. We were literally wildly successful at finding apartments and wonderful hosts. It was a fantastic experience. We had lots of contact with our hosts, once with constant phone contact the day of arrival, verifying time to meet, etc. We had to have our taxi driver speak to the host for directions. All of our hosts or their representatives gave wonderful advice about sightseeing that we had not thought of. We had as much, if not more, help than at a hotel.

I also like booking.com for both hotels and apartments.

flpab

St. Cirq, Thank you for the tip, taking housetrip off my bookmarked list. I found several unhappy people. If there was one or two but there were more and don't represent you house with the wrong pics. I only like apartments that we have alone. I don't even like B&Bs.

MmePerdu

I found the housetrip site, especially the filters, not working, never got to the reviews. In any case, I like Airbnb and one must limit the searches somehow. So housetrip is out.